[Blue_Sky1]

Hello

I'm new here, nice to connect with you. Just been reading an article in mentalhealthdaily.com entitled 'I Want To Die' which lists some things you can do to at least distract yourself from suicidal thoughts. I hope you don't mind, but I need to stop trying to cover up how I feel and say it like it is.

Briefly, I have had depressive episodes for almost 50 years! When the depression releases its grip, in comes anxiety. I sway between the two and life becomes unbearable. Mental suffering has been my constant companion most of my life. Tried everything from therapy to anti-depressants, exercise, meditation, walking in nature, healthy eating, you name it, I've probably tried it. But it always comes back - making me immobile, can't get out of bed, suicidal thoughts and wondering what is the point.
Its messed up my whole life really. I call anxiety Depression's playmate, they feed off each other!

I could do with some support and help, even writing here, how I really am, helps. for reading this, any suggestions or comments would be appreciated.

[Skeezyks]

Hello Blue_Sky1: Well unfortunately I don't know as I have any suggestions to offer. However I see this is your first post here on PC. So... to PsychCentral… from the Skeezyks! May the time you spend here be of benefit.

PsychCentral is a great place to get information as well as support for mental health issues. The more you post, & reply to other members’ posts, the more a part of the community you will become. Plus there are social groups you can join & chat rooms where you’ll be able to connect with other PC members in real time (once your first 5 posts have been reviewed & approved.) Lots of great stuff! So please keep posting!

Hi there! I can see how frustrating it is to struggle with depression and anxiety, especially when you've been suffering for so long and have tried so many conventional treatments.

I'm not going to try to offer "advice", since it might be completely useless to you and perhaps even a bit patronizing. However, I'll share some of my experiences.

Connecting with other people, whether through forums or real-life friendships, has always helped me. It helps me get out of my mind and look outside. Listening is nice, whether someone is listening to me or I'm listening to them. I feel like I'm establishing rapport, even if I can't offer advice. Sometimes I don't need advice either -- it's just nice to find some empathy.

My therapist says that depression can't hit a moving target. Even when I'm exhausted or numb, I force myself to shower (sometimes I don't shower for days) and drag myself out of the house to volunteer at the local art museum. This helps me feel like I have some purpose. I can help someone, even if it's in a small way, e.g. by answering visitors' questions or just smiling at them. This lifts my mood for anything between a few hours or a day or two.

Journalling also helps. Just a way to dump my feelings, however repetitive they are.

We're here to listen to you and help in any way we can, whether you'd like to rant or brainstorm or seek input on something specific! Take care.

[wiretwister]

Welcome ... I think we may have a lot in common ... post ... rant ... cry ... fuss ... whatever helps you ... that is why Pysch Central is here for ... there is a lot of good caring folks here ...

[Fuzzybear]

Welcome Depression and anxiety together can certainly be.. a challenge You'll find many good people here

[Blue_Sky1]

Thank you Allie. You have given me some ideas I can try, like connecting with people who are going through a 'similar' experience and maybe volunteering. I haven't done this before due to the stigma associated with mental illness. You're great to drag yourself out of bed and do something! You've got courage!